João Félix Faces New Transfer Rumors as AC Milan Decline to Sign Chelsea Forward Permanently
AC Milan’s Decision Marks a Turning Point for João Félix’s Career
João Félix’s loan spell at AC Milan has come to an end without the Italian giants exercising their option to sign the forward permanently. After joining Milan on loan from Chelsea in January 2025, Félix managed to score only 3 goals in 21 appearances, a modest return that contributed to Milan’s choice to part ways with the Portuguese attacker this summer.
Despite AC Milan paying a £5 million loan fee and covering his wages, their inconsistent Serie A campaign combined with Félix’s limited impact made a permanent transfer unappealing. The club confirmed his departure officially on social media, signaling the end of his short-lived stint in Italy.
Félix’s Struggles and Chelsea’s Squad Reshuffle
João Félix originally joined Chelsea permanently last summer in a deal reportedly worth £46 million, after an earlier loan spell failed to ignite consistent form. However, under Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca, Félix struggled to cement his place, scoring just 7 goals in 32 appearances across two spells at Stamford Bridge.
Félix’s omission from Chelsea’s traveling squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup alongside other returning loanees like Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell underscores the club’s intent to slim down their bloated roster. With over six years left on his contract, Chelsea are actively looking to offload Félix and others as they reshape their squad.
Benfica’s Interest and Reality Check
In Portugal, Benfica, where Félix began his senior career, have been linked with a possible return of the attacker. The club’s manager Bruno Lage acknowledged discussions about Félix’s return but tempered expectations during a pre-match interview, hinting that Félix was currently unavailable.
More emphatic was Benfica president Rui Costa, who publicly ruled out the possibility of re-signing Félix anytime soon, emphasizing the substantial gap between interest and actual negotiations. This casts doubt on Benfica’s chances of bringing him back in the near future.
New Frontiers: Galatasaray and Saudi Arabian Clubs Eye Félix
As Milan and Benfica step back, João Félix’s availability has not gone unnoticed. Galatasaray and several clubs from Saudi Arabia have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the forward. These clubs are likely attracted by Félix’s profile and his potential to add experience and quality in attack.
Galatasaray aims to boost their competitiveness both domestically and in European competitions by recruiting seasoned forwards, while Saudi clubs continue their recent trend of investing heavily in international talent to raise the league’s profile.
What’s Next for João Félix?
With Milan’s exit and Benfica’s hesitations, the next chapter in Félix’s career will hinge on whether Galatasaray or Saudi clubs can offer him the platform and financial incentives to revive his form. Chelsea remains open to negotiations, but the transfer fee remains unspecified and likely negotiable, which could facilitate a deal as Félix seeks a fresh start after a turbulent couple of seasons.
Félix’s career trajectory—from a highly prized £46 million signing at Chelsea to a search for stability abroad—illustrates the challenges high-profile players face adapting to new leagues and managerial systems. His future hinges on finding the right fit to recapture the promise that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did AC Milan decide not to sign João Félix permanently?
AC Milan opted against making Félix’s transfer permanent largely due to his limited impact during the loan spell, scoring only 3 goals in 21 appearances as the club had no obligation to buy and sought other attacking options.
What is João Félix’s current contract situation with Chelsea?
João Félix remains under contract with Chelsea for over six more years, but he has been excluded from the Club World Cup squad as the club plans to reduce its squad size and consider potential transfer opportunities for him.
Is there any chance João Félix will return to Benfica?
While Benfica has shown interest in the past, their president Rui Costa has publicly stated that a return for Félix is unlikely in the near future, signaling that no concrete offer or plans are in place.
Which clubs are currently interested in signing João Félix?
Galatasaray and several Saudi Arabian clubs have reportedly expressed interest, attracted by Félix’s international profile and potential value in strengthening their attacking options.
What were João Félix’s performances like during the 2024–25 season?
In the 2024–25 season, Félix scored 7 goals in 32 appearances for Chelsea and added 3 goals in 21 appearances during his loan at AC Milan, but overall his impact was considered limited and inconsistent.
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